Should You See a Neurologist for Unexplained Shoulder Tremors?

Q: Should You See a Neurologist for Unexplained Shoulder Tremors?

Hello, Miss： You mentioned symptoms that may need to consider involuntary movement disorders caused by instability of dopamine in the basal ganglia of the brain, resulting in involuntary muscle movements. <br>The manifestations can be divided into two types： one primarily involve

Involuntary shoulder twitching and the sensation of goosebumps?

Since I was a child, I sometimes experience involuntary shoulder twitching and goosebumps all over my body.
During these episodes, I do not have any emotional fluctuations.
Should I see a doctor for an examination? If so, should I schedule an appointment with a neurologist?

chloe0908, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/09

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, Miss: You mentioned symptoms that may need to consider involuntary movement disorders caused by instability of dopamine in the basal ganglia of the brain, resulting in involuntary muscle movements.
The manifestations can be divided into two types: one primarily involves movements, such as involuntary blinking, facial grimacing, shoulder shrugging, nose blowing, foot stamping, making faces, and head shaking, typically with the most activity occurring in the head and neck region above the shoulders.
The other type primarily involves sounds, such as unexplained coughing or throat clearing.
About half of the individuals experience a reduction or disappearance of these symptoms in adulthood.
Only a small number require pharmacological treatment.
I recommend that you visit a neurology outpatient clinic for evaluation and follow-up; however, due to the recent tight COVID-19 situation, it is advisable to wait until the situation stabilizes before going to the hospital for examination.
Please implement self-protection measures, including cleaning and disinfection, and adhere to new pandemic prevention practices before and after your medical visit.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health, safety, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/06/09

More Info

If you are experiencing unexplained shoulder tremors, it is advisable to consult a neurologist. Tremors can be caused by a variety of factors, and a neurologist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
Tremors can be classified into several types, such as resting tremors, action tremors, and postural tremors. Understanding the nature of your tremors is crucial. For instance, if your shoulder tremors occur when you are at rest, they may be indicative of conditions like Parkinson's disease. On the other hand, if they occur during movement or when maintaining a posture, they could be related to essential tremor or other movement disorders.

In your case, since you mentioned that the tremors happen without any emotional triggers, this could suggest that they are not related to anxiety or stress, which are common causes of muscle twitching or tremors. However, it is essential to rule out any neurological conditions that could be causing these symptoms.
When you visit a neurologist, they will likely conduct a thorough medical history and physical examination. They may ask about the frequency, duration, and specific characteristics of the tremors, as well as any other symptoms you may be experiencing. Based on this initial assessment, the neurologist may recommend further tests, such as:
1. Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of muscles and can help identify any abnormalities in muscle function.

2. Nerve Conduction Studies: These tests assess how well electrical signals travel through your nerves and can help detect nerve damage or dysfunction.

3. MRI or CT Scans: Imaging studies can help visualize the brain and spinal cord to rule out structural issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.

4. Blood Tests: These can help identify metabolic or systemic conditions that may be affecting your nervous system.

It is also worth noting that tremors can sometimes be benign and not indicative of a serious condition. For example, essential tremor is a common movement disorder that can be hereditary and often does not progress to more severe neurological conditions. However, only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

In conclusion, if you are experiencing unexplained shoulder tremors, it is prudent to seek medical advice from a neurologist. They can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options if necessary. Early intervention can be beneficial, especially if the tremors are a sign of a more serious condition. Remember, your health is paramount, and addressing these symptoms with a specialist is a proactive step toward understanding and managing your condition.

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